Pests can be found in attics and wall voids, hanging out in and near insulation year-round, but it’s especially common during the winter months as they seek warmth and shelter. This is an issue because these intruders can cause damage to your home and present serious health risks to your family. Not all pests are a problem in this way, though. Some are simply a nuisance that you don’t want to have around. Either way, pests in walls and attics are never fun. Read on to learn about pests that are commonly found in wall voids, attics and insulation.

Rodents

Perhaps the most notorious pests on this list are rodents. These pests are known for hiding in attics and wall voids, burrowing and chewing through insulation to build their nests. Not only does this result in damage to your insulation, but it can also lead to health hazards. Rodent droppings and urine can carry diseases, and when they seep into insulation, it can create an unhealthy environment in your home. If you have rodents in your walls or attic, you’ll likely hear scratching or scurrying sounds.

Bats

When it comes to attics, wall voids and insulation, bats present similar problems as rodents. While bats are usually dormant during the winter as they hibernate, they can still cause damage. While chewing through wooden structures, wiring and insulation isn’t usually their behavior, their droppings and urine can cause all sorts of problems. As it seeps into structural components, it can cause corrosion and rot, weakening the structures over time. 

The same is true for insulation, as bat droppings and urine seeping in causes damage. Beyond the damage caused, their droppings and urine can also present health risks, spreading diseases like histoplasmosis. You’ll usually be alerted to the presence of bats in your attic or walls by unsettling scratching or thumping noises.

Insects

Certain insect species are commonly found in wall voids, attics and insulation. During the colder months, asian lady beetles and boxelder bugs enter these areas in people’s homes to stay warm as they overwinter. While asian lady beetles are nuisance pests and don’t cause damage, boxelder bugs can stain walls, wood and insulation when they die or are crushed. 

Silverfish are attracted to the moisture and humidity that can be found in these areas. They can also cause a bit of damage to insulation. While they don’t particularly enjoy chewing on the insulation itself, they do enjoy chewing on the paper lining or adhesives within it. Still, this behavior can damage the insulation and affect how well it functions.

Spiders

Not only do spiders enter your home in search of shelter and protection from the cold, like the other pests on this list, but they can also be attracted by insects. Unlike bats who rely on fat stores to hibernate through the winter or rodents who scavenge for leftover food remnants, spiders rely on insects for sustenance. This means that spiders are often found in attics, wall voids and insulation where overwintering insects are lurking.

Get Help From the Pest Control Pros in Des Moines

Regardless of the type of pest you’re dealing with and whether there’s structural damage or health risks present, pests are never pleasant. If you suspect pests in your attic or walls, don’t hesitate to contact Pro-Staff, the trusted pest control experts in Des Moines. We know where pests hide, how to find them and how to get rid of them. Whether you’re dealing with a persistent rodent infestation or a nuisance insect problem, we have your back! Call us today at (515) 279-7378 or contact us online for a free inspection.